A nurse is evaluating a postpartum client for potential endometritis.
Which of the following symptoms should the nurse identify as a need for further assessment?

Choice A rationale

Facial edema, or swelling in the face, can be a sign of a serious complication during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys.

Choice B rationale

Leukorrhea, or a thick, milky discharge from the vagina, is a common and normal symptom of pregnancy. It is not typically a sign of a complication.

Choice C rationale

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms during the first trimester of pregnancy. However, severe or persistent nausea and vomiting can indicate a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which requires medical attention.

Choice D rationale

Urinary frequency is a common symptom during pregnancy and is not typically a sign of a complication.

Choice A rationale

Assessing the amniotic fluid is important after rupture of membranes, but it is not the immediate priority. The nurse should first ensure the safety of the mother and baby.

Choice B rationale

Walking the patient to the bathroom is not the immediate priority. After rupture of membranes, the patient should be assisted back to bed to prevent cord prolapse.

Choice C rationale

Calling and informing the healthcare provider is important, but it is not the first action. The nurse should first assist the patient back to bed and initiate fetal monitoring.

Choice D rationale

Assisting the patient back to bed and initiating fetal monitoring is the correct action. After rupture of membranes, the priority is to assess the fetal heart rate for any signs of distress, such as bradycardia, which could indicate cord prolapse.